A person becomes diabetic when their body is not able to produce or use insulin well, resulting in a high blood sugar level. When the body fails to make insulin at all, this results in Type 1 diabetes. With Type 2 diabetes, the body does not produce or use insulin effectively. Both types are harmful.
South Africa has the second largest population of people with diabetes on the African continent.
SAMWUMED covers diabetes by providing a blood glucose screening once per year for members to help them to assess for symptoms of the disease. In addition, members who already have the disease receive treatment and management of the disease under chronic diseases’ benefits. Click here for more information.
Avoid Diabetes
The following are recommended in order to avoid getting diabetes:
- Cut Sugar and refined food from your diet
- Exercise regularly
- Drink a lot of water and avoid sugary drinks
- Lose weight if you are overweight
- Do not smoke
Facts About Diabetes in South Africa
- Diabetes is a leading cause of death in South Africa with 12.8% of the adult population having the disease.
- People living with diabetes are two times likelier to experience heart problems, like heart attacks or strokes.
- Diabetes can cause a person’s kidneys to stop working.
- Another symptom of diabetes is nerve damage in the feet, which can lead to infection or potential amputation.
(Source: https://borgenproject.org/diabetes-in-south-africa/
